Is IV Sedation Something You Should Consider?

There are many people that have a fear of the dentist. In fact, between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. Fortunately, sedation dentistry allows these types of people to find comfort in the dental chair. Sedation dentistry, however, takes on a variety of forms or levels. What is best for you depends on the severity of your fear/anxiety as well as what type of dental work needs to be done.

Mild to Moderate Fear or Anxiety

Maybe you get sweaty palms or a racing heart in the waiting room, or you get short of breath thinking about getting a dental shot. These are often signs of a mild to moderate dental fear. In many cases, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can be used to address this level of concern. Nitrous oxide is an inhaled sedation that is safely used on children and adults. It does not require another adult to drive you home, and there are no lingering side effects. Therefore, if you just can’t quite get comfortable in the dental chair, ask for nitrous oxide sedation to help you relax.

Moderate to Severe Dental Anxiety

There are also people who have a paralyzing fear of the dentist. It is common for these patients to avoid the dental office altogether, which often leads to worsening dental issues and the need for more invasive treatments. Whether you had a bad experience as a child or simply don’t like the feeling of someone working in your mouth, severe dental anxiety can be addressed. IV sedation is reserved for patients who need a deeper form of sedation or relaxation during dental treatments. Not all dentists offer IV sedation. The dentist must be licensed and qualified to administer this form of deep sedation, and the office be equipped and adhere to certain safety standards.

During IV sedation, you will receive the sedative drug through your vein, so the effects are fast acting. This method also allows your dentist to adjust the level of sedation at any time during your procedure. Beyond extreme dental fear, IV sedation is also a good idea if you have a lengthy procedure ahead of you, including a full mouth reconstruction or multiple extractions or restorations. Lastly, patients with certain physical or mental disabilities may need IV sedation to be able to sit still through the treatment.

Never be embarrassed to ask about sedation dentistry. At Red Oak Family Dentistry, we treat dental anxiety as a very real condition that we are equipped to treat. Dr. Do is a qualified IV Sedation Dentist who takes pride in his ability to make each and every patient feel comfortable in the dental chair. Call today to ask more about IV sedation dentistry in McKinney.

Posted on Behalf of Red Oak Family Dentistry

Red Oak Family Dentistry